Prayer Study-Session Four (for 2/4/07)

[See "Prayer, Does It Make Any Difference?" icon in the left panel.]

Study Guide for Chapters 6 & 7: “Why Pray” and “Wrestling Match”

In chapters 6 & 7 Philip Yancey raises some of the most common questions about prayer: What should I pray for? How many times? Will one person praying have as much effect as many praying together? Do I just need more faith? What about unanswered prayers? Does prayer really matter? What if I gripe at God?

Fortunately, here and in the rest of the book, he addresses those questions honestly. The study guide for this week helps probe chapters 6 & 7 and helps us formulate our own answers to these perennial questions.

A. A verse to memorize: Prayers by Jesus

Luke 22:31-32 (NIV)
"Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers."

B. Book/Bible Study

Chapter 6: “Why Pray?”

1. Yancey’s primary answer to the title question is, “Because Jesus prayed.” List at least three things you can learn about prayer from reading about Jesus’ prayer life.
2. The last paragraph on page 79 lists “three rather large assumptions”. What are they, and how do they influence your attitude toward prayer?
3. Your questions and comments:
   
   

Chapter 7: Wrestling Match”

1. With which of the “God-wrestlers” mentioned in this chapter do you identify?
2. “The opposite of love is ________________”, Yancey says. Do you agree with him on this? Why or why not?
3. Your questions and comments
   

C. Class Discussion

1. How does the “key principle” stated on page 82 fit with your concept of prayer?
2. Your comments